Another Way to Look at Mental Health Stigmas

Unfortunate prejudices and judgments surround mental health issues in our world today. Depression, anxiety and the myriad of other conditions have become known as signs of weakness, or manifested symptoms to provoke attention. Something that is “all in the head” and will go away on its own. But, that isn’t true. While the exact causes of mental health conditions remain a mystery, the resounding effect they have on someone still very much exists.

October 2019 has been officially labeled as “Mental Health Awareness Month.” For the past few weeks, we have been working to provide meaningful information, in hopes of better educating our faithful readers and followers about mental health issues. We truly believe that knowledge is power. So, the more we are able to share, the greater chance we can start to break down some of those harmful mental health stigmas.

Break the Stigma

It’s important to know that mental health is an important aspect of being human. In order to ensure that we are operating at our best — physically, emotionally and mentally — we must learn to think positive thoughts, seek help when needed, and stop shaming ourselves and others on our bad days. Here are some encouraging quotes about mental health stigmas for you to keep in mind and share with others.

“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” – Glenn Close

“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” – Fred Rogers

“Mental health…is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” – Noam Shpancer, PhD

“If we start being honest about our pain, our anger, and our shortcomings instead of pretending they don’t exist, then maybe we’ll leave the world a better place than we found it.” – Russell Wilson

“Some of the most comforting words in the universe are ‘me too.’ That moment when you find out that your struggle is also someone else’s struggle, that you’re not alone, and that others have been down the same road.” – Unknown

“Don’t give in to stigma. A diagnosis does not determine who you are or what you can do!”

“The strongest people are those who win battles we know nothing about.” – Unknown

“It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.”

“I wish people could understand that the brain is the most important organ of our body. Just because you can’t see mental illness like you could see a broken bone, doesn’t mean it’s not as detrimental or devastating to a family or an individual.” — Demi Lovato

“Please don’t judge people. You don’t know what it look someone to get out of bed, look and feel presentable as possible and face the day. You never truly know the daily struggles of others.”

“I am still me, no matter my mental health.” — Niki McBain

“Don’t be ashamed of your story. It will inspire others.” — Unknown

“Those who suffer from mental illness are stronger than you think. We must fight to go work, care for our families, be there for our friends, and act ‘normal’ while battling unimaginable pain.” — Unknown

Mental Health Stigmas

Did you know that only 25% of all those who struggle with mental health issues feel that people are caring and sympathetic towards them? That’s a pretty small amount, when you think about the bigger picture. The biggest secret to breaking the judgements around mental health stigmas is understanding. Learning what mental health is, what to watch for, and how to understand what our friends and family are going through. Transparency and openness are vital to solving this.

It’s ok not to be ok. It’s ok to talk about your depression or anxiety. Having a mental health condition is not a sign of weakness. You are not alone.

Adoption Choices of Nevada

If you are currently in the process of adopting a baby and have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact, Adoption Choices of Nevada. You may visit the website here or contact us by 775-825-4673 (Reno Office) or 702-474-4673 (Las Vegas Office). Our hours are Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm PST.

Support Adoption Choices

Adoption Choices, Inc. is partnering with Crowdrise, a fundraising website for nonprofits, to help our adoptive parents and birth parents with much needed financial assistance. We understand that expenses keep clients from fulfilling their dreams. Both with birth parents making a plan for adoption, and with adoptive parents growing their family. It is our mission to provide financial assistance through grants and scholarships, awarded annually in November, in honor of National Adoption Month. Funds assist adoptive parents with matching and placements, adoption finalization and helping birth mothers improve their lives through higher education — and much more.

However, we can’t do it alone. Please read up on our programs and donate money where you are able. Your donation will make a huge impact.

About the Author

Rachel Robertson is a published journalist, book editor, certified Publishing Specialist, and aspiring novelist. She graduated from Central Washington University (CWU) in March 2011, having found her writing voice within the Creative Nonfiction genre and grew to work as a freelance book editor for small presses all across the United States.

In June 2018, she embarked on an internship with Virginia Frank and came on board with Adoption Choices Inc., Not for Profit 501(c)(3), in December 2018. Between her mutual passion with adoption and surrogacy, and her own personal history with adoption, Rachel is excited to research and share topics each week that will spread awareness and better serve the faithful patrons of Adoption Choices Inc.

When Rachel isn’t haunting her local Starbucks or Barnes and Noble, she’s avidly pouring over her Writer’s Digest subscription or cozying up with a cup of tea and book. She currently resides in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her beloved wife and Border Collie.

Social Media

We are operating full service during this time and will not be shutting down operations. Please let us know how we can help.

Jacqueline Gay, LSW, LCSW

Adoptive Parent Caseworker

My name is Jackie Gay and I have worked for Adoption Choices of Nevada as a Home Study Specialist since 2012. I have been a social worker for 30 years and a clinical social worker for 23 years. My education includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the California State University, Sacramento with an emphasis on children and families. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, skiing, and reading biographies.

Erica Palmer

Legal Assistant

My name is Erica Palmer and I am a Legal Assistant for Adoption Choices of Nevada. I have been working for Adoption Choices of Nevada since 2016. I love working with the team members in the Reno office. We truly feel like a family. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and outdoor activities.

Faith Smith

Legal Assistant/ICPC Specialist

My name is Faith Smith and I have been working for Adoption Choices of Nevada since 2010. I have a Paralegal Degree and enjoy assisting families in their journey to adoption. I feel blessed to share in the moment an adoptive family bonds with their baby and the birth parents. There is no greater love or sacrifice than the love for a child.

Coral Fantasia, BSW, LSW

Birth Parent Caseworker

My name is Coral Fantasia, and I am the newest member of Adoption Choices of Nevada. I have a Bachelor’s in Social Work and am currently working on a Master’s in Social Work. I have been working in the Social Work field since 2018 and have been working for Adoption Choices since 2019. As a Case Worker, I primarily work with the birth parents by supporting them throughout the pregnancy and post adoption. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my dogs, playing soccer, and snowboarding in the Winter Season.

Lainie Burak, LSW, MSW

Child Placement Director

My name is Lainie Burak and I am the Social Services Director for Adoption Choices of Nevada. I am a licensed social worker, have a Master’s Degree in Social Work and have been working in the field of Adoption since 1999. I have been working with Adoption Choices of Nevada since 2008. As Social Services Director, I spend time supporting both adoptive and birth parents on their journey to adoption. Being adopted myself, I am passionate about honesty and integrity in adoption, and I hope to help others by sharing my personal and professional experience. In my free time, I love spending time with my family outdoors, hiking, and reading.

Nicole Ferlito

Nicole Ferlito

Nicole is thrilled to be the newest member of the Adoption Choices team! With pervious adoption experience she understands the importance of working with people in a more intimate capacity. It takes all members of the triad to help assist with a positive adoption experience on all ends–both Expecting Parents and Hopeful Adoptive Parents. With a BA in Women’s Studies, she brings patience, strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to empathize without judgment. Nicole is a Chicago Native and coming from a big, traditional Italian family, she understands the importance of love, family, and relationships. Outside of work, she enjoys, traveling as much as possible, attending concerts, cheering on her Chicago Bears, and rehabbing recycled furniture and goods.

Patience Bramlett

Patience Bramlett

Patience Bramlett, a University of Southern Mississippi news editorial graduate, is a seasoned and award-winning freelance writer. She is also a passionate reader, whose only wish is to live life without fear of the unknown. Her motivation and inspiration to live her best life stems from the words of John Lennon:

“When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down ‘happy.’ They told me I didn’t understand the assignment, and I told them they didn’t understand life.”

After serving as an Editorial Intern for six months, she is continuing her career with Adoption Choices as our Content Writer. Fueled by her love of family, she hopes to educate those looking to grow their families through adoption.

Rachel Robertson

Writing Director

Rachel Robertson is a published journalist, book editor, certified Publishing Specialist, and aspiring novelist. She graduated from Central Washington University (CWU) in March 2011, having found her writing voice within the Creative Nonfiction genre and grew to work as a freelance book editor for small presses all across the United States.

Rachel Robertson is a published journalist, book editor, certified Publishing Specialist, and aspiring novelist. She graduated from Central Washington University (CWU) in March 2011, having found her writing voice within the Creative Nonfiction genre and grew to work as a freelance book editor for small presses all across the United States.

Rachel Robertson is a published journalist, book editor, certified Publishing Specialist, and aspiring novelist. She graduated from Central Washington University (CWU) in March 2011, having found her writing voice within the Creative Nonfiction genre and grew to work as a freelance book editor for small presses all across the United States.

Stephanie Little, LSW

Adoption Social Worker

Stephanie joined the staff of Adoption Choices of NV as a Birth Parent Counselor in July 2015. With over ten years of experience working in the area of Child Welfare, both with governmental and private agencies, she was a welcomed addition. Stephanie has a Bachelor’s in Social Work from UNLV. When not working she enjoys spending time with friends and family. Stephanie is a huge animal lover and keeps busy with her own three furbabies at home.

Meg Steinitz, LSW, MSW

Adoption Social Worker

I have worked in adoption and child welfare since 2001 and have been with Adoption Choices since 2013. I have a Master’s degree in Social Work from USC and am a Licensed Social Worker in Nevada. I work with Birth Parents and Adoptive Parents throughout Northern Nevada and seek to empower clients to make the best possible decisions for themselves, their family and their child. My experience working in the foster care system gave me an appreciation of the importance of permanency for children, and I love being a part of the creation of forever families.

Cindy Johnson, LSW

Adoption Counselor

I have over twenty-years experience working with birth families and their children. I have been employed with Adoption Choices of Nevada for almost four years as a Birth Parent Counselor. I have been involved in forming and leading the Birth Parent Support Group in the Reno office. Married with five children, three of which are adopted. Professional Trainer and Child Advocate.

Maire Burgess, LASW

Executive Director

I have been a social worker since 1972 and have practiced primarily in the area of children and families. I retired from the State of Nevada and Washoe County Social services ten years ago. I supervised the Adoption Unit in both agencies for more than 13 years. I have been the Executive Director of Adoption Choices of Nevada since its inception in 2008. I have an amazing staff in both the Reno and Las Vegas offices; they make me and the agency look great. I have an enormous passion for adoption and take great pride in the client centered services my staff brings to both the Birth and Adoptive Parents during their journey to a successful adoption.

Jo McLaughlin, MA, LASW

Director of Social Services

Jo McLaughlin, MA, LASW, has been the social service director for the last 7 years. As a 41 year resident of Las Vegas, over half of those years have been working in the adoption field. Jo has a Master’s in Counseling and a Bachelor’s in Social Work. Jo: “I believe that working with pregnant women has always been my calling, this is a ministry more than a job.” Jo believes strongly in adoption and walking the journey with all parties of the triad is a blessing. Jo has been married for 38 years and they have grown daughters.

Required Documents

Birth Certificates

Financial Statement

Divorce Decree from previous marriages (if applicable)

Home Study (and update if applicable) (two copies with original signatures from your home study professional)

HIV, Hep B and Hep C test results

Income tax returns for the last three years (first page only)

Verification of Employment (letter from employer) and current employment history (where and for how long)

Copy of Native American Heritage enrollment (if applicable)

Marriage license or domestic partnership

Verification of medical insurance under which the child will be covered

Military Discharge (if applicable)

Updated physician reports

Five reference letters, with phone numbers for purposes of verifying. Nevada Applicants: We will send the reference forms to the references you provide on your application.

Copy of Social Security Cards, Driver’s Licenses, or Passports

State Bureau of Investigation report, fingerprint check, Sex Offender and Child Abuse Registry, where available

Profile Book and “Dear Birthparent Letter” (5 copies)

Ebony Clayton, LCSW

Home Study

Ebony Clayton is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a graduate degree in Social Work from the University of Utah and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Las Vegas Nevada. Ebony also has a minor in Sociology.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Ebony provides individual, family, and couples psychotherapy as well as group treatment. She believes in treating the whole person and tailors treatment to meet each individual’s needs and treatment goals.

Ebony joined Adoption Choices in 2016 to provide Home Studies for Adoptive Families. Ebony has worked with foster and adoptive families for more than 12yrs and enjoys providing them with support and guidance.

Amanda Travers, LSW

Adoption Social Worker

Amanda Travers, LSW, received her Bachelor’s Degree from UNLV School of Social Work in 2008 and is licensed as a LSW by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers. She has been in practice for a little over 8 years both as a Social Work Case Manager for the state of Nevada as well as Adoption Social Worker for Adoption Choices of Nevada. Amanda is a 20+ year resident of Las Vegas, moving here from southern California in 1991. She has been married to her wonderful husband for 9 years and is a mother of two beautiful children. She is passionate about her work and has made it her life’s mission to help insure a better quality of life for all who are in need. The three most important things to Amanda are her family, friends, and faith.

Caitlin Cafero

Office Assistant

Caitlin Cafero is the Administrative Assistant. She has been employed with Adoption Choices of Nevada since March 2013. She is responsible for the daily office tasks. She assists the Office Mgr. and Director to help their jobs be a little easier. Her favorite part about her job is seeing families being created. Caitlin was born and raised in Las Vegas. She is married and they have two very energetic little boys. In her free time she enjoys spending time out doors with her family.

Kristin Cirimele

Office Manager

Kristin Cirimele has been employed by Adoption Choices of Nevada since February of 2011. She started out as the Office Admin and is now the Office Manager. She is responsible for overseeing our office and making sure everything is running smoothly. Kristin is also responsible for assisting Adoptive parents who want to get started with our agency.

Her background is a BA in Psychology and almost 15 years of detail oriented office management and customer service. She loves working with our clients every day and seeing their journey through adoption. She has four children of her own and spending time with her family is what she enjoys most when she isn’t working.

Barbara Draper, MSW, LSW

Adoption Social Worker

Barbara has a master’s degree in social work and 34 years of social work experience. She started her career with the Nevada State Division of Child & Family Services, first in child protective services, then foster care, and finally adoptions. Barbara has been an adoption social worker for over 26 years, six of those years with Adoption Choices of Nevada completing adoption home studies, supervising placements, and finalizing adoptions in court. She also was employed for six years as a trainer for the Understanding Infant Adoption Program, which offered training sessions throughout Nevada.

Mary Laman

Adoption Social Worker

My name is Mary Laman and I recently joined the staff at Adoption Choices of Nevada in July 2014. I will be working with adoptive parents, completing their home studies and post placement visits. I graduated from UNLV in December 2001 with a Bachelors degree in Social Work. My first social work position was with the State of Nevada working in the MOMS Program. This program served pregnant women on Medicaid ensuring that they were receiving appropriate medical care and given needed services to assist in a healthy pregnancy and baby. On November 1, 2003 I accepted a position with the State of Nevada as a social worker in foster care. I worked with parents, children and foster parents until my retirement in October 2013. I have resided in Nevada since 1979. I have been married for 39 years and have two children and five grandchildren who are the joy of my life. I am happy to join the staff at Adoption Choices of Nevada to assist and support adoptive parents in their adoption journey.

Brittney Gamble, MSW, LSW

Licensed Social Worker and Birth Parent Counselor

Brittney Gamble is a licensed social worker and Birth Parent Counselor with Adoption Choices. She earned her Bachelors degree of Social Work from Brigham Young University in 2008 and went on to complete the Master of Social Work Advanced Standing Program at Salem State University in 2012. She is passionate about working with families and has practiced social work in a variety of settings including in an elementary school, a family court, and two hospitals. Brittney’s adoption experience includes supporting families as post-adoption social worker and employment as a family case manager for the state of Massachusetts. Additionally, Brittney has three adopted siblings. Brittney’s hobbies include reading, traveling, and baking sweet treats. However, what Brittney loves most in life is to spend time with her family and her dog, Schnitzel.

Christina Smith

Birth Parent Case Manager

Christina has been a social worker for ten years. She attained her Bachelors Degree in Psychology in 2002 and then completed her Master Degree in Social Work in 2004. Christina started her social work career working for Child Protective Services ensuring the well being of abused and neglected children. She then worked as an adoptions social worker in the public sector assisting in finding forever families for foster children. After the public sector, Christina started working in domestic and international adoptions writing homestudies for adoptive families. Christina moved to Las Vegas in 2009 from Southern California. Christina has worked for Adoption Choices for about two years as a birth parent case manager as well as works with adoptive families in the homestudy process. Christina has a bright and outgoing son that is in the first grade. During her free time she enjoys traveling. She has traveled to over 50 countries worldwide.